✔ Bring salted water to a boil and cook linguine/spaghetti according to package instructions.
✔ Drain and set aside, reserving ½ cup of pasta water.
2️⃣ Sauté the Shrimp
✔ Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil + 1 tablespoon butter in a skillet over medium heat.
✔ Add shrimp, season with salt & black pepper, and cook 1-2 minutes per side until pink.
✔ Remove shrimp from the pan and set aside.
✅ Tip: Don’t overcook the shrimp—they should be tender, not rubbery!
3️⃣ Make the Scampi Sauce
✔ In the same skillet, add garlic, red pepper flakes, and remaining butter.
✔ Sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
✔ Pour in white wine (or chicken broth) and let simmer for 2 minutes.
✔ Add lemon juice & zest, stirring well.
✅ This sauce is light, buttery, and packed with flavor!
4️⃣ Combine & Serve
✔ Return shrimp to the pan and toss in the sauce for 1 minute.
✔ Add cooked pasta (if using) and mix well.
✔ Stir in fresh parsley and drizzle with extra olive oil.
✅ For a glossy sauce, add reserved pasta water 1 tablespoon at a time!
5️⃣ Garnish & Enjoy!
✔ Serve hot with grated Parmesan, lemon wedges, and crusty bread.
✔ Pairs perfectly with a glass of white wine! 🍷
🔥 Variations & Customization
🔹 Creamy Shrimp Scampi – Add ¼ cup heavy cream for a richer sauce. 🥛
🔹 Spicy Kick – Add extra red pepper flakes or Cajun seasoning. 🌶️
🔹 Garlic Butter Rice – Serve over rice instead of pasta. 🍚
🔹 Low-Carb Option – Use zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice. 🥒
🥡 Storage & Reheating Tips
✔ Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 2 days.
✔ Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of broth or butter.
✔ Freeze shrimp separately (before adding pasta) for up to 1 month.
✅ Best enjoyed fresh, but reheating carefully keeps shrimp tender!
🏆 Final Thoughts: A Quick & Elegant Seafood Dish!
This Shrimp Scampi is fast, flavorful, and restaurant-quality, making it perfect for a weeknight meal or special occasion. Serve with pasta, rice, or fresh bread to soak up the delicious sauce!
